There is also no prohibition on blogs operated by individual members as private citizens. The DON recognizes the value of this communication channel in posting current information and supporting the morale of personnel, their family and friends. As long as personnel adhere to specific restrictions on content, the DON encourages the use of blogs and recognizes this free flow of information contributes to legitimate transparency of the DON to the American public whom we serve.

Not sure what the reason was for Spinnaker deep-sixing his blog, but it's very possible that his XO wanted his musings to be a private affair. This Naval instruction does not necessarily prevent the command from doing what they see necessary. If you think military members have some inherent "right" to blog, well you've probably never been in the military.

While deployed in Iraq and A-stan, you have to inform your chain-of-command if you choose to blog, but it's not required elsewhere (run down of the rules are here). I recommend using a handle, not referring to your ship or unit specifically, and not talking about it with your buddies/co-workers. Best not to make waves. I've never had a problem with this issue like some other bloggers have, and please contact me if you're military and have any questions about this [ltnixonrants (at) gmail].

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comments:

I was pretty amazed at the level of detail you were able to include in your blog when you were in Iraq. Perhaps it speaks to your ability to work around the rules better than others.

I understand that others are in positions in the military that might be more "sensitive" then your super secret mission infiltrating Dance, Dance Revolution cults in Sadr City, but hey good on you! I'm sure that you and Muqtada had a shit load of fun with the Wii while JDAMs dropped all around you. Good thing you were able to find a wireless internet connection.

If you don't talk about the command, and you only talk about stuff in the news or that's publicly available...you'll be good. Just gotta walk on eggshells, but I never broke the rules. I'm such a good boy.

Who is This Clown?

Nixon is a former Navy guy who did a couple of deployments at sea and spent a year in Iraq. He enjoys reading and writing about the strange intersection between war, politics, and the media. He enjoys being an ex-pat and NGO employee in Bangkok for the time being.